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Marine Corps partners with ACC at 2014 Women's Rowing Championship

Lizzy Youngling, a rower from the University of Virginia women's rowing team, hangs on the pull-up bar during the Atlantic Coast Conference Women's Rowing Championship, May 17th, at Lake Hartwell in Clemson, S.C. Photo by Cpl Stanley Cao.

CLEMSON, S.C. (May 19, 2014) – The United States Marine Corps showed their support at the Atlantic Coast Conference Women's Rowing Championship at Lake Hartwell in Clemson, S.C., May 16th and 17th.

During the two-day event, Marines spoke with the varsity rowing team, interacted with students and spectators and held an impromptu pull-up competition between schools.

The Marine Corps was recognized as a presenting partner for the 2014 ACC Women's Rowing Championship as part of an effort to build community relations. Marines educated potential candidates on the opportunities and scholarships provided by the Marine Corps.

"Most of these young ladies did not know that the Marine Corps was an option for them," said Maj Derek Nielsen, the commanding officer of Recruiting Station Columbia. "The exposure is absolutely critical for the longevity of the Marine Corps."

Boston College, Clemson University, Duke University, Syracuse University, University of Miami, University of Notre Dame, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and University of Virginia competed at Lake Hartwell, S.C. in hopes of winning the ACC championship. The Virginia Cavaliers won their fifth consecutive ACC championship in dramatic fashion, as they swept all four races in the grand final, Saturday, May 17th.

As the rowing championship came to an end, ACC students partook in another competition, the Marine Corps pull-up challenge. Teams surrounded the pull-up bar to see which team could complete the most total pull-ups.

While enjoying a barbeque lunch provided by the Marines, the Clemson women's rowing team gave their attention to Maj Derek Nielsen, Capt Peter Foster, the Charlotte officer selection officer, and Capt Nicole Jansen-Hinnenkamp as they gave a team speech.

"Common attributes that we see in a female rower and a Marine Corps officer is the dedication to themselves and others," said Jansen-Hinnenkamp. "The partnership between the Marine Corps and ACC is great because we are able to see what these women are capable of and also give them an opportunity to continue on after rowing with leadership and dedication in the Marine Corps."

For the team and head coach Robbie Tenenbaum, the championship competition and Marine Corps partnership completes their rowing season.

"I think the Marines educated us very well," said Tenenbaum. "I appreciate the Marines help in making the championship the best one we ever had."

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